The Golden Compass

(USA, 2007, 114 minutes)

In a parallel universe, a teenager is entrusted with the Golden Compass that has the power to uncover the truth and undergoes a series of adventures to save his friends. Dazzlingly realised family fantasy from an acclaimed series of books that may be too thoughtful and dense for younger audiences and underdeveloped for older audiences; but the visuals are magnificent and the whole enterprise has a sense of awe and wonder that is unusual these days.